“Today’s action reflects a year of progress with the Government of Sudan on counterterrorism and North Korea. But let’s be clear: this is just one step in a long process of determining U.S. policy toward Sudan.

“I am under no illusions that the corrupt and criminal actors at the center of the Sudanese government have changed, or are somehow less responsible for years of state-sponsored violence, instability and oppression. Just two weeks ago, Sudanese security forces carried out deadly attacks on protestors at Kalma camp.

“But the committee has looked closely, humanitarian access has improved, and further engagement could benefit the people of Sudan and the United States. For that to happen, the U.S. must hold the Government of Sudan accountable, and insist that future negotiations put human rights and religious freedom at the forefront. Should the Government of Sudan’s actions or the situation on the ground deteriorate, I will not hesitate to take decisive legislative action.”